Investigating the role of sleep and melatonin in diabetic eye disease
Sleep and Circadian Regulation in Diabetic Retinopathy: The Role of Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells and Melatonin Supplementation
This study is looking at how sleep and body clocks impact blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes, especially those at risk of vision problems, and it will see if taking melatonin can help improve sleep and overall health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892148 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how sleep and circadian rhythms affect metabolic control in patients with type 2 diabetes, particularly focusing on diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness. It examines the function of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), which are important for regulating sleep and melatonin levels. The study aims to determine if dysfunction in these cells contributes to sleep disturbances and worsens metabolic issues in diabetic patients. Additionally, it will assess whether melatonin supplementation can help improve these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have type 2 diabetes, particularly those experiencing diabetic retinopathy.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have diabetes or those with other forms of eye disease unrelated to diabetic retinopathy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that improve sleep and metabolic control in diabetic patients, potentially reducing the risk of blindness.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this research is novel, there is growing evidence suggesting that addressing sleep and circadian rhythms can positively impact metabolic health in diabetic patients.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reutrakul, Sirimon — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Reutrakul, Sirimon
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.